Isn't that a comedy of situation. Adorable. Love the idea!

Have you ever met an old man who is too immersed in his own worldview? Cranky is that in this story, and this impression of mule-like stubbornness is carried through well.
Go find your son, Cranky! He is your candle in the darkness

If it based on a real person's struggle, I'd love to know more about the story behind this

And why people confused by 'steep'? Steep is a slope, it is plain as it can be. Seriously. 😒